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The Do’s and Don’ts of Housekeeping

The Do’s and Don’ts of Housekeeping
May 15, 2023

It’s true that house cleaning is a pain. However, using the right approach to cleaning can make life easier. In this article, we will share our do’s and don’ts to keep your home clean without causing more harm than good.

The do’s and Don’ts of housekeeping

Professional Cleaning Services Housekeeping Do’s

  • Do wash before you disinfect: Although washing with soap and water first adds a second step to your washing, it is particularly important in the bathroom and kitchen. These areas call for disinfecting cleaners. However, they won’t work if you use them on a dirty surface.
  • Do kill viruses and bacteria on high-touch surfaces daily: COVID-19 taught us that germs spread when we cough and sneeze, as well as through touch. Washing high-touch areas with an antibacterial wipe will reduce the spread of germs.  
  • Do wash toys: Tossing dryer-safe soft toys in the dryer every now and then kills dust mites and helps remove allergens. You can also put most plastic toys in the dishwasher. Just check labels to make sure you won’t ruin them.
  • Do use surface-appropriate cleaners: Check the manufacturer’s recommendations before using any cleaning product on the surfaces in your home.
  • Do clean your coffee machine: The reservoir in your coffee machine can become contaminated if you don’t clean it often enough. Check the manufacturer’s instructions to determine how often they recommend cleaning and follow the recommended steps.
  • Do clean your garbage disposal: If you have a garbage disposal, keep it germ and odour-free by feeding it some lemons or baking soda and white vinegar weekly.
  • Do deep clean your major appliances monthly: Use this schedule to keep your appliances clean:
    • Dishwasher: Run an empty cycle using baking soda and white vinegar once a month.
    • Fridge: Clean your fridge shelves and drawers every month or two.
    • Washer: If you have a front-loading washer, use a washer-cleaning product every three to four months to remove soap scum from the seal.
    • Oven: Deep clean your oven every three to four months to remove greasy buildup.
  • Do dry work first: Dusting and sweeping/vacuuming should always be done first before you apply wet cleaning solutions. Otherwise, you’ll be creating a mess that adheres to surfaces.
  • Do clean from top to bottom: Cleaning from top to bottom allows you to remove dirt as you work. If you start at the bottom, any cleaning you’ve done will be ruined as dust falls from areas you clean above. 
  • Do use the least harmful cleaners first: Instead of always reaching for the bleach and heavy-duty toxic cleaners, use a mild cleaner to see if it works first. This reduces toxins in the home and avoids wear and tear on your surfaces.
  • Do put together a cleaning caddy: Use a cleaning caddy stocked with all your housecleaning staples. You can carry it around from room to room to make your cleaning more efficient. You won’t have to keep running to grab the right tool or cleaning product. Opt for all-purpose cleaners that tackle multiple jobs and surfaces so you’re not lugging around a massive caddy.
  • Do be careful using cleaning products: Drips from cleaning products should be avoided, as they can damage other surfaces. For example, a strong cleaner used on your oven will damage wood floors. Drips into electronics can also cause permanent damage.  
  • Do follow manufacturers’ instructions: When using any cleaning product, always read the instructions first. You might find that you can’t use it on certain surfaces, or it requires a soaking period or special protective equipment like gloves or a mask. The same rule applies to your belongings. Don’t try to wash anything without reading the manufacturer’s care manual or label.

Professional Cleaning Services Housekeeping Don’ts

  • Don’t forget out-of-sight areas: Out of sight is out of mind, but that hidden dirt is still harmful. Dusty buildup can irritate allergies and asthma symptoms, so don’t overlook those nooks, corners, and areas like ceiling fans/lighting fixtures, baseboards, under the furniture and appliances, the tops of kitchen cabinets, etc.
  • Don’t ignore spills: If you spill something, whether it’s on the kitchen counter, the floor, or anywhere else, always wipe it up immediately so it doesn’t get sticky or cause stains.
  • Don’t wipe away disinfectants before they do their job: Disinfectants need time to kill bacteria and germs. Follow the directions on the bottle to ensure they’re doing their job.
  • Don’t use bleach if you don’t have to: Bleach is a harsh cleaner and disinfectant that can be hard on your skin, lungs, and eyes. If you don’t need it, use other cleaners instead, including natural solutions like vinegar. If you do use it, keep the windows open.
  • Don’t assume natural cleaners are safe on all surfaces: Natural, non-toxic cleaners like white vinegar and baking soda can damage surfaces such as marble and wood. Don’t assume it is safe to use just because it’s natural.
  • Don’t put cleaning off: Putting basic cleaning tasks off just leads to a bigger mess. As a result, you end up working much harder. Keeping on top of small cleaning tasks allows you to avoid major cleaning marathons.
  • Don’t waste time: Work smarter, not harder. You’re probably catching on that working in small bursts with regular cleaning avoids long-haul cleaning marathons. You can also do double duty by tackling a few jobs at once. If your disinfectant is at work, move on to another job, like washing the dishes. You’ll finish your cleaning sooner.  
  • Don’t forget to spot-test cleaning products: When cleaning soft surfaces, always do a spot test in a hidden area first. This will avoid damaging items like upholstered furniture or carpeting.
  • Don’t mix cleaning products: Never mix cleaning products. For example, if you’re scrubbing your tub and find the cleaner you used isn’t working, don’t apply another cleaner. First, thoroughly rinse the other cleaner away. Also, don’t try to make your own concoction by mixing full-strength cleaners together. Most cleaners will cause a chemical reaction that produces toxic fumes that can lead to serious injury. 

These do’s and don’ts will keep you safe, protect your belongings, and also make the job easier.

Maid4Condos: Your Cleaning Experts

If you’d prefer to avoid house cleaning altogether, click here to learn more about Maid4Condos’ deep cleaning and professional cleaning services. You can also call us at 647-822-0601 or contact us online for more information.

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